Barbering has busted out of its gender box. It is all about razor craft and Hana enjoys working with clients to ensure the perfect tapered cuts and fades for all hair types. She is adept at straight razor cutting and finds it’s a great technique for a cut that needs to go straight from the skin to
texture in the hair. Did you know that Akai Hair Design hosted a Barber Battle in 2019 and that Hana Akai has worked with barbers across North America and abroad?

MAKEOVERS: Did you know that Hana has been doing makeovers for years, so she has an eye for ensuring not only the cut suits the hair and face of the client but also matches their personality. She works with a client to identify what is their “hair comfort zone” and their “hair baggage” and how to move them towards a confident new look. You can see her regular makeover feature with Inspired a 55+ Lifestyle Magazine. Check out our gallery for past makeovers.

KEEPING IT FRESH: Hana was recently recognized as part of an elite group of Redken certified Hair Stylists, meaning that she has received the latest training from the industries’ leading professionals and trendsetters. In addition, she is constantly learning and reaching out to other stylists. She keeps her skills sharp and her eye on trends and techniques. She also takes advantage of how much education is available now online.

PASSION AND HANDS ON TRAINING: Hana’s passion for the hair had her globetrotting from New York and Vancouver Fashion Week, Cuba, Japan and many cities across the USA. Did you know that hair icon Nick Arrojo has been one of her greatest influences? She was trained by Nick Arrojo over a span of 9 years. She worked hard to master his distinct technique of straight unguarded razor cutting. In Cuba she delved further into the craft of barbering. In Japan, she became acquainted with the many distinct techniques so different compared to what is done in North America.